Women’s Health Spotlight: Sylvia Rivera

Every woman deserves access to compassionate and comprehensive healthcare. At Variety Care, we’re proud to offer just that. Variety Care provider Sylvia Rivera, DNP, WHNP, AGNP is an expert in obstetrics and gynecology with over 20 years of experience and is a testament to passion, perseverance, and a deep commitment to her patients.  

A Calling from the Start 

From a young age, Sylvia Rivera knew that women’s health was her calling. The philosophy of providing quality over quantity in patient care has been her guiding principle. “I believe in quality time more than quantity, of time” she says. 

This dedication stems from her early experiences in healthcare, starting alongside her husband as they built a successful practice in California. While managing the practice, she realized her potential to make a bigger impact. She enrolled in the University of California, Los Angeles, to become a nurse practitioner, then later earned her doctorate at Chamberlain University in Chicago. Her comprehensive training included women’s health, adult, and geriatric care. Yet, her heart always led her back to women’s health. 

Beyond Women’s Health: Holistic Care 

Rivera embodies Variety Care’s integrated care model, focusing not just on gynecological or obstetric needs but on the overall well-being of her patients. “Women’s health isn’t just about the pelvis or breasts,” she explains. “It’s about looking at every aspect of a person’s health.” 

“We really show respect for the patient.” she says. “Everyone is treated well.” 

Bridging the Gap Between Clinical and Personal Connection 

Despite accomplishments in academia, including a stint as an associate professor teaching labor and delivery, Rivera missed the one-on-one connections clinical work provides. “Teaching during COVID was especially challenging because everything was online,” she recalls. “I created case studies to mimic real-life scenarios, but it wasn’t the same as connecting face-to-face.” 

For her, patient interaction is the core of her work.  

Advocating Women’s Health and Prenatal Care 

One of her key messages to patients is the importance of integrated prenatal care. “When a patient is pregnant, you’re taking care of two people,” she says. “I’m responsible for making sure mom does okay and baby does okay.” 

She’s also passionate about empowering patients to take charge of their health. From guiding women through complex issues like infertility to helping them navigate menopausal care, she provides compassionate, judgment-free support. “I try to develop a relationship with patients where they feel they can trust what I say and trust the care I’m giving them,” she says. “I’ll always guide them in the proper direction, and I won’t be judgmental.” 

The Rewards of Women’s Health 

For Sylvia Rivera, the most rewarding moments often come in small but meaningful ways—a patient who trusts her judgment, a mother holding her healthy newborn, or a woman finding relief after years of health struggles.  

In particular, she recalls a 90-year-old cancer patient she treated in Northern California. The patient initially declined chemotherapy, but Rivera was able to find a treatment plan with fewer side effects that ultimately lead to remission in the patient. Rivera says situations like this are only possible with trust between patient and provider.  

Looking Ahead 

As she reflects on her career, she’s not ready to slow down. “At some point, I’ll say it’s enough, but I’m not there yet. It’s my calling,” she says with a smile. 

Her hope for every patient she sees is that they leave feeling cared for, respected, and empowered, embodying Variety Care's mission to make quality, compassionate healthcare accessible to all. 

At Variety Care, providers like Sylvia Rivera exemplify what it means to care deeply and genuinely. Their dedication ensures that every patient feels valued, supported, and heard. And that’s the heart of what we do.